Application of Novel Biodegradable Demulsifier Synthesized from Helianthus annuus in Field Crude Oil Demulsification─Experimental and Modeling Approach through RSM

Abstract

The present study dealt with the application of biodegradable demulsifier synthesized based on Helianthus annuus (sunflower oil). The synthesized demulsifier is characterized using Fourier-transform infrared, nuclear magnetic resonance, and thermogravimetric analysis. The demulsification process was designed, modeled, and optimized through the response surface methodology. Furthermore, the significance of the developed models and operating parameters was evaluated using analysis of variance. The results indicated that the proposed models were highly significant, with a p-value of <0.0001. The demulsification efficiency (DE) of 100% was achieved at the following optimal conditions: 185.2 ppm demulsifier concentration, 70 °C temperature, and 55.3 min settling time. The interfacial activity, particle size analysis, and viscosity of the emulsion were measured, and optical microscopic analysis was conducted to directly observe the demulsification process. The study also compared the DE of prepared and field emulsions. Moreover, the synthesized demulsifier is degraded in 14 days. This research provides a promising solution for the treatment of water-in-oil emulsions.